SafePlants

Moabi (Baillonella toxisperma)

Baillonella toxisperma, commonly known as Moabi, African pearwood, or djave nut, is a tree species belonging to the Sapotaceae family. It is the only species within the genus Baillonella.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Baillonella toxisperma Pierre
• Family: Sapotaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Synonyms:
  • Baillonella obovata Pierre ex Dubard
  • Baillonella pierreana (Engl.) A.Chev.
  • Mimusops djave Engl.
  • Mimusops obovata Engl.
  • Mimusops pierreana
  • Baillonella djave (Engl.) Pierre ex Dubard (Synonym)
  • Baillonella toxisperma var. obovata Aubrv. & Pellegr. (Synonym)

Distribution and Habitat

Baillonella toxisperma is native to the Guinea-Congolian Regional Centre of Endemism, specifically found in the dense forests of Central Africa, ranging from Nigeria to Cabinda. Countries of occurrence include Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.

Morphological Characteristics

The Moabi tree is a large tree, reaching heights of 60-70 meters, with a bole diameter of up to 3 meters. The bole is straight and cylindrical, sometimes swollen in the lower part, and can reach up to 30 meters to the first branches.

Ecological Role

Moabi is considered botanically, ecologically, and economically important. It is a valuable timber species, playing a significant role in the forests it inhabits.

Uses

Baillonella toxisperma is a multipurpose tree providing non-timber forest products. The fruit kernels are used as a cooking ingredient. The wood is used to create musical instruments.

Other Common Names

• Njabi (Nigeria, Cameroon)
• Adza (Gabon)
• African Pearwood (U.K.)
• Dimpampi (Congo)
• Djave nut

Further Information

• Learn more about the Moabi on ARKive (website no longer exists).
• The Plant List: Includes scientific plant names for the genus Baillonella.
• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Baillonella.
• IPNI (International Plant Names Index)